The Police Reform Commission (PRC) has recommended enacting a law to safeguard victims and witnesses, ensuring their protection under a legal framework.
"Introducing a victim and witness protection law would be a significant step toward fostering public-friendly policing. With such legislation, the police could actively protect victims and witnesses while strengthening public trust," the PRC stated in its recently released final report.
The commission emphasized that this law would clarify the responsibilities of the police force, enhance accountability, and improve police-community relations.
Currently, there is no effective legal framework to shield victims and witnesses from intimidation or influence by criminals, the PRC noted.
"This legislation would guarantee legal protection and uphold the right to privacy for victims and witnesses, facilitating the prosecution of offenders and playing a crucial role in reducing crime," the report stated.
The PRC further highlighted that a law on victim and witness protection would contribute to developing a model of public-friendly policing and fostering a just society.
Re-evaluation of RAB's Role
Additionally, the commission has urged a reassessment of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) in the context of building a people-friendly policing system.
A significant portion of human rights violation allegations against law enforcement agencies over the past 15 years has been linked to RAB, according to the PRC.
The report pointed out that RAB has faced severe criticism from domestic human rights organizations due to allegations of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, torture, and unlawful arrests. Furthermore, its activities have sparked international controversy, leading to bans in certain cases.
"Given this situation, a thorough reassessment of RAB’s necessity in 2025 is crucial," the PRC stated.
To ensure police accountability and establish a more community-oriented policing system, the commission stressed the importance of reviewing RAB’s past actions and the allegations against it.
